was this guy punching above his weight?

[Steve]

 

Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin were a couple for 12 years. Definately think he was punching above his weight. Serge also reported to smoke 60-90 filterless ciggies a day. Great song though, reminds me when i was younger and hearing the noise these two were making. lol

[Trevor]

Haha....very French in attitude and appearance, they don't make them like that anymore!

[Steve]

On 12/12/2024 at 10:02 AM, Trevor said:

Haha....very French in attitude and appearance, they don't make them like that anymore!

even in his music he has to have a ciggie on. Very controversial song back in the day 

[Trevor]

Found this on Facebook and makes interesting reading      Source:  Cultural Ethereal Past 

Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin, two of France's most iconic musical figures, shared a deep connection not only through their music but also through their unique experiences of cultural exchange. Gainsbourg, born in 1928, was known for his audacious, avant-garde approach to music and his often provocative persona. When he first visited London, he was fascinated by the city’s contrasts and found many aspects of its culture, from the food to the architecture, intriguingly exotic. This perspective is captured in Birkin’s reflection on his response to haggis, the traditional Scottish dish, which he found to be "the most oriental thing" he had ever eaten. Serge’s appreciation of London’s nuances, such as its iconic buses, telephone booths, and Victorian architecture, highlights his distinctive worldview and his ability to find wonder in the everyday.

Their relationship, both personal and professional, was a testament to the creative collaboration that blossomed between them. Birkin, a British-born actress and singer, became Gainsbourg’s muse and collaborator, most famously on the controversial and sensual song "Je t'aime... moi non plus." Released in 1969, the song stirred international attention due to its intimate lyrics and provocative nature. Their partnership in both music and life made them one of the most talked-about duos of the 1960s and 1970s, with Gainsbourg’s wit and Birkin’s charm complementing each other perfectly. Despite the cultural and linguistic differences, London provided a backdrop where their shared love for music and exploration of each other's backgrounds could flourish.

The photo by Robert Dear from 1971 reflects a moment in their relationship that exemplified their mutual curiosity and admiration for each other. While Gainsbourg’s affection for London may have been rooted in an outsider’s fascination, his time in the city and his connection to Birkin left a lasting mark on his artistic legacy. The candidness and charm of these moments between Gainsbourg and Birkin offer a glimpse into the personal dynamics that inspired some of the most iconic music of their era. Through these reflections and images, we see a unique blend of cultural admiration and artistic innovation that defined their time together.